Note that I point out, as do they, that these guidelines are based on the best available evidence which continues to evolve. (It wasn’t that long ago when experts denied that Zika could be sexually transmitted. Now we know better.)

Scientific evidence is not static. It is dynamic and ever evolving. This is not a problem with science, but is part of its very nature–that of discovery.

“Why this matters: Clinicians should continue to educate all patients about ZIKV sexual transmission risk, to conduct testing for all persons with possible sexual exposure, and to report all cases of ZIKV to local health authorities” (CDC, 2016).

Critical thinking: How might you use this information at work or with the broader public?

Don’t Go Pokemon Go….& if you must, watch out! New privacy and safety dangers are being recorded almost every day. The game is full of health and computer hazards, and has potential to distract workers from their life-saving care.

What is the evidence?At this point mostly anecdotal reports and the anticipated possibility that healthcare workers could be distracted from life-saving work. You need to translate this evidence into action. Why would you do this with such relatively weak research evidence? Because the risks are far higher to ignore it, & essentially NO risks if you use the evidence. The BBB lists these problems & makes some suggestions based on incoming reports:

Privacy:In order to play the game, users must allow the app to access other applications, such as maps and camera. The iOS version for the iPhone can access all Google data.

Malware:So far, the app is only available in the U.S., Australia and New Zealand, which has given cybercriminals an opportunity to capitalize on the demand…. Users should only download the app through official app stores, not third-party sites.

Safety:Players should use the same safety precautions while playing the game that they would in any other outdoor setting, including caution in strange location.

Infringement:PokeStops are supposed to all be on public property (or cooperative
private sites), but at least one health system, Dignity Health, is asking that its facilities be removed to avoid dangers to privacy and safety of patients, visitors, families & staff.

Translating this evidence into practice? Think before you Pokemon Go, if at all. Talk to your patients–when people don’t feel well they are even more likely to be distracted.

Critical thinking? 1) List specific actions that you will do to promote privacy, safety and fight malware and infringement. These can range from “never download;never play” to…..? When developing this list specifically address the challenges above. 2) What about patient players? staff players? visitor players? How should you help them to be safe?